This species of wrasse are quite common in kelp forests in Southern California. Known for their bright pink coloration (in females) and large heads and teeth (in males) these fish are actually hermaphrodites! Born female, the largest individual in a population transforms into a conspicuous male.

MARE: Density In/Out MPAs

A figure showing the density of California sheephead inside fished (blue) and unfished (red) marine reserves around the Channel Islands. Source: MARE.

A figure showing the density of California sheephead inside fished (blue) and unfished (red) marine reserves around the Channel Islands. Source: MARE.

Click for Details Average density (per 100 m2 +/- SE) of California sheephead (Semicossyphus pulcher) at fished (blue) and unfished marine reserves (red) surveyed annually in two time periods 2005-2009 and 2014-2015. Density has increased since the baseline period, and the increase was more pronounced inside reserves as compared to fished sites. For more information, consult Figure App.F.12.16 in the CINMS 2016 Condition Report.

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